Nintendo's Surprise: An Interactive Alarm Clock and a Mysterious Switch Online Playtest
A Nintendo interactive alarm clock? It's a reality! Alongside the recently unveiled Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo, Nintendo has also launched a secretive Switch Online playtest.
The Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo – A Wake-Up Call from the Game World
Free Alarm Sound Updates on the Horizon!
Priced at $99, the "Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo" uses game sounds to rouse you from slumber. Nintendo boasts that the Alarmo "responds to your body’s movement," creating an immersive wake-up experience. Featuring alarm sounds from popular franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Splatoon, with free updates promised, the Alarmo offers a unique approach to morning routines.
The alarm's interactivity lies in its motion-sensing technology. Simply waving your hand will temporarily quiet the alarm, but lingering in bed will only increase its intensity. The alarm only ceases once you fully leave the bed, a "brief victory fanfare" for conquering the morning struggle, as Nintendo playfully puts it.
Utilizing a "radio wave sensor," the Alarmo measures distance and movement speed without the need for video recording, ensuring enhanced privacy. Nintendo developer Tetsuya Akama highlighted the sensor's ability to detect subtle movements, even in dark rooms or with obstacles, as long as the radio waves can penetrate.
Exclusive Early Access for Nintendo Switch Online Members
Currently, Nintendo Switch Online members in the US and Canada enjoy exclusive early access to the Alarmo via the My Nintendo Store. The alarm clock will also be available in-person at the Nintendo New York store while supplies last.
A Sneak Peek at the Future: The Nintendo Switch Online Playtest
Applications Open October 10!
Nintendo has also announced a Switch Online playtest, accepting applications from October 10th, 8:00 AM PT / 11:00 AM ET to October 15th, 7:59 AM PT / 10:59 AM ET. This playtest focuses on a new feature for the Nintendo Switch Online service.
Up to 10,000 participants will be selected, with those outside Japan chosen on a first-come, first-served basis. The playtest itself runs from October 23rd, 6:00 PM PT / 9:00 PM ET to November 5th, 4:59 PM PT / 7:59 PM ET. Eligibility requires an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership, age 18 or older, and a Nintendo Account registered in one of seven specified countries (Japan, USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain).
